Circle of Life Expedition Safari

Q: What is a Budget Shared Camping Safari?

A Budget Shared Camping Safari is an affordable and adventurous way to explore Tanzania’s national parks. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to experience the wildlife and landscapes without the cost of a private tour. You join other travelers in a group, share a safari vehicle, and sleep in tents at public campsites inside or near the parks.

Q: What kind of meals are provided?

A private safari chef will prepare fresh, hot meals daily — including breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner. We cater to all dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) if requested in advance.

Q: What are the toilet and shower facilities like?

Campsites usually have shared basic facilities such as flushing toilets and cold or occasionally warm showers. In remote areas, we may use portable toilets or bucket showers for comfort and hygiene. Light, neutral-colored clothing (layers for warm days & cool mornings) Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat Insect repellent Binoculars and a camera Travel documents, including passport and travel insurance

Q: Can children join this safari?

Absolutely! This safari is family-friendly and suitable for children aged 2 and above. We recommend letting us know if you’re traveling with young kids so we can tailor the experience for comfort and safety.

Q: What wildlife will I see?

Depending on your route and season, you can expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly leopards and rhinos, among many other species.

Transportation
4 X 4 pop up roof & Expert Guide
Group Size
Minimum 2 people
Accomodation
Budget lodge and Bush camping
Fitness level
Easy
Arrival on
Arusha
Departure from
Arusha
Best season
June to October & December to March
Guiding method
Guided game drive
Tour type
Shared budget wildlife safari
Language
English, Spanish , France
Meals
All listed meals
Minimum Age
2
Maximum Age
90

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusions

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusions

FAQs

Tour Summary

Circle of Life Expedition Safari – 3-Day Tanzania Wildlife Tour

Experience the excitement of viewing African game when you take this Circle of Life Expedition Safari 3-day safari tour to Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. This Circle of Life Expedition Safari is a short but intense circuit that aims to provide the most opportunities to spot several species such as elephants, tree-climbing lions, leopards, black rhinos, flamingos, and much more. The Circle of Life Expedition Safari is carefully designed to give travelers the best wildlife encounters in Tanzania’s most famous parks. Stay overnight at safari lodges during the Circle of Life Expedition Safari, all offering private rooms and bathrooms for your comfort.

Why you will love this trip?

Authentic Budget Lodges & Camping Accommodation
Fresh Meals Prepared Daily
Small Group Wildlife Experience
Affordable Pricing
Expect to explore the Big five
Diverse landscapes & wildlife encounters
Better Wildlife Viewing
Unlimited Game Drives

Day 01 :

Pick up from the airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a friendly staff member from Serengeti Landmark Tours will be there to welcome you for your Circle of Life Expedition Safari. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha, where you can relax after your journey and begin your Circle of Life Expedition Safari experience. In the evening, you will have a safari briefing, where our team will go over your itinerary, answer any questions, and ensure you are well-prepared for your adventure. Get a good night’s rest—your unforgettable Circle of Life Expedition Safari begins tomorrow.

Accommodation

✓  Name: Arusha Tourist in Hotel
✓  Type: Hotel
✓  Level: Budget

Day 02 :

Arusha to Tarangire

We will pick you up from your hotel at 7:30am for your Circle of Life Expedition Safari, and after being introduced to your guide and chef, we will drive to Tarangire National Park (about 2 hours). This marks the beginning of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari experience in one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks, famous for its diverse landscape.

The park is particularly known for the abundance of ancient Baobab trees and having the largest concentration of elephants in the country, offering a unique chance to observe elephant family interactions during your Circle of Life Expedition Safari. We will enjoy a full game drive depending on reported wildlife sightings, with good chances to see predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, while herbivores like giraffes, wildebeest, and zebras are commonly seen throughout the park on your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Later, we will head to the Tarangire River picnic site, where you will enjoy lunch with a beautiful view of the river and wildlife. Small monkeys and baboons may try to get close, but there is no need to worry during your Circle of Life Expedition Safari experience. After lunch, we continue with an afternoon game drive before heading to your accommodation for dinner and overnight rest, completing a rewarding first day of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Accommodation

✓  Name: Fanaka lodge
✓  Type: Lodge
✓  Level: Budget

Day 03 :

Ngorongoro crater game drive

Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha Region is one of the highlights of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari. After an early breakfast, you will descend into the crater at around 6:15 am for a game drive in search of the rare black rhino. On your Circle of Life Expedition Safari, rhinos are among the most difficult animals to spot, but the crater floor offers one of the best chances in Africa, as most wildlife is concentrated within this natural enclosure.

During your Circle of Life Expedition Safari, you will also enjoy excellent opportunities to see a wide variety of animals such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and hyenas in one of the most unique safari settings in the world. After lunch inside the crater, you will continue with a game drive before ascending back to the rim.

Later, you will proceed to camp to pack and prepare for the journey to Tulia Spa & Boutique, arriving in the evening as part of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari experience, combining both adventure and relaxation.

Accommodation

✓  Name: Fanaka lodge
✓  Type: Lodge
✓  Level: Budget

Day 04 :

Lake Manyara National Park

After an early breakfast at the campsite or lodge, you will depart for a thrilling game drive in Lake Manyara National Park as part of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari, one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.

Lake Manyara Game Drive Highlights on your Circle of Life Expedition Safari:

Diverse Ecosystems: From groundwater forests and open grasslands to acacia woodlands and the alkaline lake itself, Lake Manyara offers a variety of habitats within a compact area, making your Circle of Life Expedition Safari highly rewarding.

Tree-Climbing Lions: Keep your eyes open for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, often seen resting in the branches during your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Elephant Encounters: Large herds of elephants are commonly seen, often up close, adding unforgettable moments to your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Birdlife: Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 400 bird species, including thousands of pink flamingos along the lake shore, a key highlight of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Other Wildlife: Giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, and various antelope species are also commonly seen throughout your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

You will enjoy a relaxed game drive through the park, stopping at scenic viewpoints for photos and wildlife observation during your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Drive Back to Arusha:

After lunch (either picnic-style inside the park or at a designated picnic site), you will begin the drive back to Arusha, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions, marking the final stretch of your Circle of Life Expedition Safari.

Arrival in Arusha is usually in the late afternoon or early evening. You will be dropped off at your hotel, the airport, or another location of your choice within the city, concluding your unforgettable Circle of Life Expedition Safari experience.

Accommodation

✓  Name: Arusha tourist inn hotel
✓  Type: Hotel
✓  Level: Budget

Day 05 :

Arusha City Tour & Airport Drop-Off

Make the most of your final day in Tanzania with a guided Arusha City Tour before heading to the airport! This experience gives you a taste of local life, culture, and history — all in one enriching half-day adventure.
🌍 Arusha City Tour Highlights:
1. Central Market Visit
Explore the bustling local market where you’ll see colorful displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, textiles, and handcrafted items — a great place for last-minute souvenirs and an authentic taste of everyday Tanzanian life.
2. Cultural Heritage Centre
Discover Tanzanian art, crafts, and history at this beautifully designed center. You can browse artworks, learn about the diverse tribes of Tanzania, and even shop for high-quality souvenirs and gemstones like Tanzanite.
3. Clock Tower Landmark
Snap a photo at the famous Arusha Clock Tower, said to be the halfway point between Cairo and Cape Town — a historic symbol in the heart of the city.
4. Local Lunch (Optional)
If time allows, enjoy a delicious local or international meal at a recommended restaurant or café in Arusha before your journey to the airport.

✈️ Airport Drop-Off
After the city tour, you’ll be comfortably transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), depending on your flight. Our driver will ensure you arrive on time and assist with your luggage for a smooth departure.

Frequently Asked Questions –Budget Shared Camping Safari

Expand all

What is a Budget Shared Camping Safari?

A Budget Shared Camping Safari is an affordable and adventurous way to explore Tanzania’s national parks. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to experience the wildlife and landscapes without the cost of a private tour. You join other travelers in a group, share a safari vehicle, and sleep in tents at public campsites inside or near the parks.

Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

No, all camping gear is provided — including tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, chairs, tables, and cooking equipment. Just bring your personal items and a sense of adventure!

What kind of meals are provided?

A private safari chef will prepare fresh, hot meals daily — including breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner. We cater to all dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) if requested in advance.

Will we see the Big Five?

Tanzania offers some of the best chances to see the Big Five — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino — especially in Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. While sightings are never guaranteed, your guide will do their best to track them down for you!

What are the toilet and shower facilities like?

Campsites usually have shared basic facilities such as flushing toilets and cold or occasionally warm showers. In remote areas, we may use portable toilets or bucket showers for comfort and hygiene.

Light, neutral-colored clothing (layers for warm days & cool mornings)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
Insect repellent
Binoculars and a camera
Travel documents, including passport and travel insurance

Is it safe to go on safari in Tanzania?

Yes, Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Our professional driver-guides are trained in both safety and hospitality. All accommodations are secure, and we follow all national park safety protocols.

Is the camping safari safe?

Yes, it’s safe. Our campsites are located in designated areas with ranger presence, and your guide is trained to handle wildlife encounters. You will be given a safety briefing on the first day.

What’s the best time to go on safari?

The safari season in Tanzania is excellent year-round. However, the dry season (June to October) is best for game viewing, while December to March is ideal for calving season in the Serengeti. The Great Migration can be witnessed at different times depending on your travel month.

Can children join this safari?

Absolutely! This safari is family-friendly and suitable for children aged 2 and above. We recommend letting us know if you’re traveling with young kids so we can tailor the experience for comfort and safety.

What wildlife will I see?

Depending on your route and season, you can expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly leopards and rhinos, among many other species.